Kabakovs on Collaboration, Scale, and Conceptual Painting at Pace
Emilia and Ilya Kabakov, a notable husband-and-wife artist team since 1989, gained significant acclaim in the United States after collaborating with Pace Gallery in 2012. Their latest exhibition showcases two innovative series: "The Two Times" (2014-2015) and "Six Paintings about the Temporary Loss of Eyesight" (2015). These works explore the relationship between contemporary visuals and historical references in a distinct manner. In an interview with Eric Sutphin, the couple highlights how their collaboration enhances their creative perspectives. Ilya, a prominent figure in Moscow Conceptualism, emphasizes a focus on conceptual art that intertwines nostalgia and optimism.
Key facts
- Emilia and Ilya Kabakov have collaborated since 1989 and married in 1992.
- Their first jointly signed work was The Palace of Projects (1997).
- They joined Pace in 2012.
- Current exhibition at Pace includes The Two Times (2014–15) and Six Paintings about the Temporary Loss of Eyesight (2015).
- They identify as conceptual artists and work in installation, painting, graphic design, and film.
- Ilya Kabakov was part of Moscow Conceptual artists from the 1960s through the 1980s.
- Their 2014 Monumenta presentation at the Grand Palais is cited as their ideal project.
- They make a distinction between museum and gallery exhibitions, with museums offering more freedom.
Entities
Artists
- Emilia Kabakov
- Ilya Kabakov
- Eric Sutphin
- Pierre Bonnard
Institutions
- Pace Gallery
- Grand Palais
- Centre Pompidou
Locations
- United States
- Russia
- Japan
- Europe
- Moscow